Five Simple Ways to Keep Your Home Toasty This Season

As chilly weather sets in, making your home cozy and energy-efficient becomes essential. Cold drafts, poor insulation, and outdated heating can make winter uncomfortable and expensive. The good news? You can keep the warmth in and the bills down with a few practical adjustments. Here are five smart tips for a warmer, more comfortable home this season.

1. Plug Drafts and Seal Openings Drafts are the silent culprits that let cold air sneak in. Check your windows, doors, and even spots like electrical outlets or pipe entrances for gaps. Weather stripping, caulk, and draft stoppers can work wonders in sealing these areas, ensuring that the heat stays inside where it belongs.

2. Boost Your Insulation Effective insulation is a game-changer. By adding or upgrading insulation in your attic, walls, and floors, you can dramatically reduce heat loss, keeping your home at a stable, comfortable temperature. Older homes, in particular, often benefit from an insulation upgrade.

3. Embrace Natural Sunlight Letting the sun work for you is both easy and free. Open your curtains or blinds during the day to allow sunlight to warm your space naturally. When night falls, close heavy curtains to create a barrier that keeps the day’s warmth in and the cold out.

4. Improve Your Heating System A well-functioning heating system is key to warmth and efficiency. Schedule a maintenance check to ensure your furnace or heat pump is in top shape. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat is also a simple way to customize temperatures based on your daily routine, saving energy without sacrificing comfort.

5. Consider an Energy Audit Want a professional edge? An energy audit can help pinpoint where your home is losing heat and identify opportunities for savings. Many providers, like Eversource, offer in-home audits that include air sealing, rebates, and tips for energy-efficient upgrades.

As winter approaches, implementing these small changes can make a big difference. Not only will they keep your home warmer and cozier, but they’ll also lower your energy bills, making your home more sustainable and cost-effective. Enjoy the season knowing your home is prepared for the colder months.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Tips for Effective Leaf Raking

As leaves begin to fall from the trees, the prospect of raking can feel overwhelming. However, with the right approach, you can turn this chore into a manageable and dare I say enjoyable task. Here are some updated best practices for effective leaf management to keep in your back pocket as we approach the outdoor cleanup season. 

1. Timing Your Raking

Some people like to wait until all the leaves have fallen, while others tackle their yards over the course of a few weeks to avoid the bulk. Monitor both your trees and local weather conditions to choose the optimal time. We’ve had a very dry season so leaves are light, but a big rainfall will change that, so be mindful of the forecast.

2. Select Appropriate Tools

Invest in high-quality rakes, such as leaf rakes or adjustable rakes, to enhance efficiency. For larger areas, consider a leaf blower to save time. Leaf claws and leaf sweepers can facilitate easier collection of leaves. A tarp can also be very helpful to avoid having to pick up in bags and barrels. 

3. Plan Your Strategy

Before you start, determine where to pile the leaves and the most efficient route through your yard. Generally, raking from the outer edges towards the center is effective but it depends on your yard size and shape. 

4. Use Proper Raking Techniques

Employ smooth, steady motions to gather leaves. Avoid abrupt movements to reduce strain on your back and arms. Maintain good posture, take short breaks, and keep your shoulders relaxed to minimize fatigue. Gloves are a great idea to protect your hands from blisters and sharp, hidden objects. 

5. Choose a Disposal Method

Decide between bagging the leaves or using a mulching mower. Bagging provides thorough removal, while mulching enriches your lawn as leaves decompose. Select the method that best fits your yard and preferences. 

6. Dispose of Leaves Responsibly

Ensure proper disposal of collected leaves. Many municipalities offer curbside pickup or designated drop-off locations for yard waste. If composting, make sure leaves are free of debris such as sticks and branches.

7. Engage with Neighbors

If raking becomes too strenuous, consider reaching out to neighbors or local community groups for assistance. Many young people are eager to help for a small fee. If using a professional company, don’t wait until the last minute to contact them as many will be booked weeks in advance. 

8. Maintain Your Tools

After raking, clean and store your tools properly to prolong their lifespan. Keep rakes dry and clean, and ensure gas-powered equipment is maintained and stored safely.

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro”. All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only. 

Transform Your Home with Low-Maintenance Vinyl Siding

After nearly 50 years in the remodeling business, one of the most common things I hear from homeowners is the desire for a home that’s easier to take care of—without sacrificing how it looks. 

When vinyl siding first came out, it wasn’t exactly known for its visual appeal. But things have changed. Thanks to advancements in technology, today’s vinyl siding combines durability with a variety of design options, making it a popular choice for those looking for both practicality and style. If you’re thinking about updating your home’s exterior with something that requires little upkeep, vinyl siding is worth a closer look.

It Looks Better Than Ever

Gone are the days when vinyl siding was just a flat, uninspired option. Today’s vinyl siding comes in a range of styles and textures that can suit any aesthetic. You can choose from profiles like fish scale, shake, and scalloped designs—or even opt for products that mimic the look of wood or other natural materials. The variety of options allows you to create a home exterior that’s both stylish and low-maintenance.

Built to Withstand the Elements

Connecticut weather is no joke, with its scorching summers and cold winters. Vinyl siding is designed to hold up in all conditions—resistant to fading, cracking, or warping. It can even withstand winds up to 110 mph. Most products come with warranties that last up to 50 years, offering you peace of mind knowing your investment will last.

Maintenance is a Breeze

One of the biggest perks of vinyl siding is how easy it is to care for. Forget about repainting, staining, or caulking your home every few years. With vinyl siding, all you need is a garden hose and a little soap for an occasional wash. And unlike wood, vinyl doesn’t rot, split, or attract insects, saving you from future headaches.

It Saves You Money on Energy Bills

Insulated vinyl siding adds an extra layer of protection to your home, acting like a blanket over your walls and studs. Many homes, especially older ones, are under-insulated, meaning your heating and cooling systems are working harder than they need to. By upgrading to insulated vinyl siding, you can improve energy efficiency and maintain a more consistent temperature inside—cutting down on those high energy bills.

It’s an Investment That Pays Off

With long-lasting durability, minimal maintenance costs, and energy savings, vinyl siding practically pays for itself over time. In fact, vinyl siding projects often rank among the highest in terms of return on investment when it comes to home renovations. Plus, the added curb appeal can boost your home's market value.

If you’re considering giving your home a fresh look, vinyl siding is definitely worth exploring. With so many design options and benefits, it's a smart choice that simplifies home maintenance while enhancing its appearance.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a home improvement company based in Bristol since 1975. For remodeling inquiries, call (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Send your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with "Ask the Pro" in the subject line for a chance to have them answered in print. All advice is for general guidance only.